Dear Friends and Family,

My name is Luke Ciotti, and I am 16 years old. I am kindly asking for your support in helping me attend the upcoming 2025 Moebius Syndrome Conference, which focuses on Moebius Syndrome, a condition I live with every day. Moebius Syndrome is a rare congenital condition that results from the underdevelopment of facial nerves, which can affect eye movement, facial expressions, and speech.

This conference will take place from July 24-27 in Salt Lake City, Utah, and it brings together doctors, researchers, families, and individuals who are all living with or know someone living with Moebius Syndrome. For me, it would be a powerful opportunity to learn more about my condition, connect with other teenagers and adults who understand what it’s like, and find inspiration and strength in a community that is just like me. I would also love to mentor other kids and let them know that life with Moebius can be pretty great! I previously attended the conference when I was one, then again when I was seven. Many of the attending doctors have documented my condition over the years, and my attendance will help further their research on me and Moebius Syndrome..

Because travel, registration, and accommodations can be costly, I am hoping for some support to make this experience possible. If support is not possible, prayers for a safe journey would be appreciated. Any contribution would mean so much to me and my family. Your help would not only allow me to attend, but it would also give me a chance to bring back knowledge and new connections with other people living with Moebius.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my letter. When I return from the conference, I will send out a recap of my journey and experience in Utah. I truly appreciate your support.